Fire Cause Investigation Flashcards
It is the policy of PF&R to make every effort to determine what on ALL fires in Portland? (2)
Origin and Cause
Company officers or Command shall request the on duty fire investigator whenever what circumstances exist?
Suspected arson/suspicious fire
Fire of undetermined origin/cause
Prior/habitual fire
What are 4 examples when an investigator is NOT needed?
- Minor fire accidental cause
- Minor accidental burn no transport
- Vehicle fire from engine insignificant loss
- Set by youth under 10 no property loss
What 2 things are the primary concern once life safety and fire control is achieved on a fire?
Protection of fire scene and preservation of physical evidence
We must maintain custody of a fire scene until released to who?
Property owner or responsible person
When an investigator is not involved in an incident, who does the fire report?
The appropriate fire officer
What is unique about using fuel powered tools on scene and then calling for an investigator?
Fuel powered tools can contaminate the scene and the investigator shall be notified of such
Refuel AWAY from fire scene
What if there are victims at the fire scene, what should you do even before the investigator arrives?
Attempt to identify the victims and/or any witnesses as soon as possible
On a fire, Before disconnecting power on an electrical panel, what shall you identify?
Position of circuit breakers
If any are tripped LEAVE IN TRIPPED position
If there are known problems related to the function of the buildings extinguishment system, who does the Company Officer report it to?
Prevention Divison via a FMO referral
If an owner urgently needs something from the fire scene who shall you clear it through first?
The fire investigator. Document anything removed
Evidence cannot be used in court unless the investigator can establish what regarding the evidence?
A chain of custody proving who found the evidence, where found, and not tampered with while in custody
If necessary to move some evidence to prevent destruction, what should you do?
Mark location
Notify the investigator
Who fills out the fire report if an investigator was called?
Investigator and FIRST IN OFFICER discuss who puts in what data
If an investigator not involved in incident, who completes the fire report?
The APPROPRIATE Fire Officer
